Retaining walls in Sacramento over 4 feet from base of footing require a building permit, engineered plans, and inspection under SMC Title 15.
Retaining walls in Sacramento follow CBC Section 105 and SMC Title 15. Walls retaining 4 feet or more of unbalanced fill (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) or any wall with a surcharge load (driveway, structure) require a building permit with engineered plans stamped by a licensed engineer. Walls under 4 feet still must not destabilize adjacent property or redirect drainage onto neighbors. Walls near the American River and steep lots get extra geotechnical review.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Sacramento code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Sacramento, CA
The City of Sacramento does not have a stand-alone movable tiny house (THOW) ordinance like neighboring West Sacramento's Ordinance 24-9. Tiny homes are only...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento regulates carports under City Code Chapter 17.624 (Residential Accessory Structure and Use Regulations). Attached carports are governed by section...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento treats above-ground pools the same as in-ground pools when water exceeds 18 inches deep. A building permit, manufacturer's specs, retractable ladd...
Sacramento, CA
Per Sacramento City Code 9.16.090, all pools and spas need a 60-inch barrier with a self-latching gate. New or remodeled pools at single-family homes must ha...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento sheds under 120 sq ft don't need a building permit (Sac. City Code Β§15.20). Max 18 ft overall height, 10 ft wall height, min 4 ft from main house,...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento enforces both state law (Cal. Health & Safety Code Β§Β§115920-115929) and Sacramento City Code 15.64.070, which require every swimming pool or spa t...
See how Sacramento's retaining walls rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.